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Gail Boom Obituary
Born May 2, 1953, in La Crosse, WI, to Ralph and Joan ("Lobie") Broring, Gail moved every few years due to her father's career in the Marine Corps but had La Crescent, MN as the ultimate family home. Gail brought humor, warmth, and generosity to every chapter of her life. A graduate of La Crescent High School (1971) and Winona State University (1976) with a BS in Nursing, she cared for others both professionally and personally. She began her career at St Francis Hospital, where she met Dr. R. Ried Boom. They married in 1983 and built a life together in Waukon, IA and later Manchester, IA, raising three children.
Gail was the heart of her family, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and steadfast partner. Her quick wit, easy laugh, and open heart drew in those around her. She volunteered her time freely with school, sports, church, various clubs and served on the Manchester Library Board. Gail was particularly skilled at needlepoint, sewing and quilting. She loved travelling, especially with family and was a joyful friend who could always be counted on for a listening ear and a good laugh.
Gail is survived by her husband, Ried, Urbandale, IA; children Alex (Mackenzie and daughters Zoe and Noa), Urbandale, IA; Hannah (Finn), Auckland, NZ; Ian, Cedar Rapids, IA; sister Kathy Boardman, La Crescent, MN; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Tommy.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Heartland Presbyterian Church in Clive, IA, on August 31, 2025, at 2 p.m., with a reception to follow.
The family is deeply grateful to the caregivers in Manchester, Urbandale, and at Arbor Springs, who supported Gail with such warmth, kindness, and dedication.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
- Manchester Public Library, Gail Boom Memorial (304 N Franklin St, Manchester, IA 52057).
- Des Moines Refugee Services, Gail Boom Memorial (PO Box 529, Des Moines, IA 50302).
- Iowa Public Radio, Gail Boom Memorial (2111 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312 or online at donate.ipr.org).
Memories and Condolences
for Gail Boom
Sponsored by Neptune Cremation Service – Des Moines.
3 Entries
Trish Harkness
August 21, 2025
Our sympathy. Gail was a great nurse and friend. Don and Trish Harkness
Becky Gesing
August 18, 2025
You have my sincere sympathy Reid and family.
Mary Hertzfeldt
August 14, 2025
I worked with Gail and Ried at St. Francis back in the day. We had so many good times. She and Ried were the best! My sincere condolences
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